FYI - EDIT THE FIRST PARAGRAPH BELOW WITH THE CURRENT SITUATION. BE SURE TO INCLUDE THE DATE IN THE POST TO CLARIFY THE TIMELINE.
As you may have likely heard, there is a moderate risk (4 out of 5) for strong tornadoes, damaging winds, and dangerous nighttime tornadoes tomorrow, Tuesday, April 4th, into Wednesday morning, April 5th, for portions of the state. For the latest updates, see https://www.spc.noaa.gov/
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1) π§βπ Find trusted information from local public agencies on Nextdoor; go to https://nextdoor.com/agency/feed
2) π± Have multiple ways (mobile phone, TV, radio, FEMA app) to receive weather alerts and to keep your phone charged.
3) πͺοΈ Identify where you can take shelter if a tornado warning is issued. The safest place in a home is the basement. If there is no basement, an inside room, without windows, on the lowest floor is second best.
If you live in a mobile home and need shelter, you can explore maps like this one http://findyourtornadoshelter.com. Be sure to have a plan for how you will get there.
Remember, when a tornado warning is issued, the tornado is here or near, and you need to take shelter immediately!
It's also helpful to:
π¬οΈ Secure or bring in items that could become projectiles
π· Take pictures of your home before the storm; this can help with insurance later if needed
π Make sure your neighbors have a plan and transportation to shelters if neededππππ πππ πππ
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β οΈ WATCH = Stay alert & be ready to take shelter
β οΈ WARNING = Take shelter immediately in a safe place
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π If you have a basement or the lowest level inside room with no windows and are willing to invite your neighbors to shelter with you, follow the instructions below:
Step 1: Click this link https://nextdoor.com/news_feed/?open_composer=true&hashtag=tornadoshelter
Step 2: Where it says, "What is on your mind, neighbor," type "If you need a place to shelter during a tornado warning, you are welcome to shelter in my basement"
Step 3: Click "Add a location;" if the location is inaccurate, type your address in the "Search" field, then click the "Use this location" button.
Step 4: Click "Next"
Step 5: Under "Post to your feed," click on "Anyone" and change it to "Nearby neighborhoods" to reach neighbors close to you
Step 6: Click "Post"
Step 7: Monitor and respond to comments by your neighbors.
Step 8: Trade phone numbers so you have two ways to communicate
π To see or edit your post, visit your profile - https://nextdoor.com/profile
π To see who is offering their basement for shelter - https://nextdoor.com/hashtag/tornadoshelter/πππππ πππππππππ ππππππ ππ ππ ππππ πππ πππππ ππ πππ
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Keep freezers and fridges closed as much as possible
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Switch off electronics to avoid damage from surges
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Place generators outside, at least 20 ft. away from the house
Follow these food safety tips:
π€’ Don't taste the food
π‘οΈ Use a thermometer to check food temperature
ποΈ Throw away food that is 40+ degrees Fahrenheit for more than 2 hoursππ
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π« Do not try to outrun a tornado if you are in a vehicle.
π« Do not go under an overpass or bridge. Youβre safer in a low, flat location.
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If you are in a car or outdoors and cannot get to a building, cover your head and neck with your arms - cover your body with a coat or blanket, if possible.
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Decide where you will go to take shelter. A friend or relativeβs permanent house is a possibility. Make sure you can get in 24 hours a day.
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Time out the route to your shelter location so youβll be certain you can get there quickly whenever a tornado warning is issued.
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Always follow weather forecasts and purchase an NOAA weather radio. The radio will sound, alerting you to severe weather warnings 24 hours a day.
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Sign up for severe weather text messages or e-mail alerts. And, if you do not have time to get to your safe shelter, get out of the mobile home and take cover in a ditch or low-lying area.
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For updated information, pay attention to EAS, NOAA Weather Radio, and local authorities.
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Stay clear of fallen power lines or broken utility lines.
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Wear appropriate gear during clean-up, such as thick-soled shoes, long pants, and work gloves; use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
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π It's common to feel overwhelmed, anxious, isolated, or distressed during such events.
π«Ά You're not alone: The National Disaster Distress Line 1-800-985-5990 offers 24/7 confidential, multilingual emotional support https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline